Saddleworth unites in grief for final goodbye to Tyrese

A village united in grief as Saddleworth said an emotional goodbye to tragic schoolboy Tyrese Glasgow.

Pupils, teachers and other staff from Saddleworth School provided a guard of honour along Uppermill High Street as Tyrese’s funeral cortège drove past.

Many youngsters were in tears at the sight of the 12-year-old’s coffin, flanked by white floral tributes simply saying ‘Brother’ and ’Son.’’

All impeccably behaved during the sombre occasion, remembering Tyrese from Manchester Road, Mossley had been one of their own just three weeks earlier.

Business owners, residents and shoppers also paid their respects as the hearse and a procession of more than 40 vehicles, many flying a thin, red ribbon to remember Tyrese’s love for Arsenal, made its way to a thanksgiving service at St James’ Church of England, Greenacres Moor.

Hundreds packed the Barry Street church for a moving service conducted by Reverend Paul Plumpton to remember Tyrese’s short life.

Aunts Donna and Jade read a eulogy and a poem, there were personal tributes from godmother, Simone, on behalf of Ty’s mum, Katy, and dad Anthony, cousin Shoa and godmother, Tsana, sang and there was a poem read out by Howard on behalf of all the family in Barbados.

In addition, headteacher Matthew Milburn, read a tribute on behalf of Saddleworth School while Saddleworth School choir sang ‘Wings’ by Birdy.

Tyrese Glasgow

Following the service and burial at Greenacres Cemetery Tyrese’s family arranged a ‘fun day’ at St Anne’s Rugby Club, Higginshaw Road as a happier reminder of his young life.

He died in hospital on June 15 after being found at his home on Manchester Road.

GMP Saddleworth and Lees paid tribute to the pupils’ response during the difficult drive past.

Writing on their Facebook page PC Lee Cullen said: “So very proud of the Saddleworth School children. Absolutely impeccable as they stood in line and paid their respects to Tyrese Glasgow’s funeral Cortege.

“In all my years in the service I have never seen such a site (sic) with all of the children stood shoulder to shoulder along the High Street in absolute silence.

“The community also turned out to support the children and they were fantastic.

“Each and everyone of the pupils is a credit to Saddleworth School and the Saddleworth and Oldham Community. We as a team are very proud of them all.”

Business owners also praised the children’s response including Norma Merton and Deborah Bradbury from Pause a Second.

Norma said: “The children all behaved impeccably and were a credit to the school on this very sad occasion.”